Glacier Matanuska - Boris Diaw©

Extended Combined Trip from the Canadian Rockies to the Fjords of Alaska

32-Day Travel Itinerary for Alaska and Canada

Set out to explore Alaska and the Canadian Rockies on a 32-day journey. This custom-designed tour takes you from the spectacular badlands of Alberta to the wild fjords of Alaska, passing through the Canadian Rockies, the legendary Denali National Park, and the monumental glaciers of the interior. With breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, and immersion in authentic small towns, this comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable experience of Western Canada and Alaska.

  • The Canadian Rockies: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake.

  • The rock formations of Drumheller and its famous dinosaurs.

  • Denali National Park, home to Mount McKinley and abundant wildlife (bears, caribou, moose).

  • McCarthy and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, off the beaten path.

  • The Matanuska Glacier, vast and accessible.

  • Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park, nestled among glaciers and whales.

  • Brown bear watching in Katmai, a highlight of the trip.

Length of stay: 32 days

Theme: Expeditions & Adventure

Difficulty: For all audiences

Highlights of this trip

Denali National Park

A premier destination for experiencing nature in its wildest form.

Matanuska Glacier

As Alaska's most accessible glacier, you can walk right out onto the ice to admire its bluish crevasses.

Kenai Fjords National Park

One of the best places to see whales, sea lions, and seabirds.

Travel Itinerary

Day 1 :

Calgary-Drumheller Airport

Pick up your rental car at the Calgary airport.

Drive from Calgary International Airport to Drumheller.

Overnight stay at a B&B in Drumheller.

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Day 2 :

Drumheller

A free day to explore the Badlands, an arid region with spectacular scenery.

The Badlands is a spectacular, rugged landscape characterized by eroded rock formations and deep canyons. It is a place of great geological and paleontological richness, teeming with dinosaur fossils. You can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring breathtaking, majestic landscapes. French explorers, frustrated by their inability to find food in this arid part of the country, nicknamed the region the “badlands.”

Overnight stay at a B&B in Drumheller.

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Day 3 :

Drumheller - Canmore

Drive from Drumheller to Canmore.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Canmore.

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Day 4 :

Lake Louise - Moraine Lake - Canmore

Explore Lake Louise and Moraine Lake at sunrise, before the tourists arrive.

You’ll set out early to admire one of the most photographed spots in the country: Moraine and Louise Lakes. The first light over Moraine Lake: marvel at the enchanting sight of the sun illuminating the Valley of the Ten Peaks and the pure waters of Moraine Lake.

Then enjoy a rare moment of serenity at Lake Louise: although it’s very touristy, you’ll be charmed by the play of light and shadow between the lake and the mountains. Its turquoise waters make Lake Louise the most photographed site in the Rockies. On its shores stands the Fairmont Château Lake Louise hotel, which dates back to 1890. A 2-km trail allows you to walk along the lake’s edge. This lake is unique in that it is accessible year-round: in winter, a skating rink is set up on the frozen lake.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Canmore.

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Day 5 :

Banff National Park - Canmore

A day of hiking withaprivate English-speaking guide.

You’ll explore the mountains of the Banff region with an experienced guide, who will help you choose a trail based on your skill level and preferences. For example, you can discover the treasures of Banff National Park by exploring its forests and lakes, or you might be tempted by lesser-known hikes, such as those in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park or the vibrant valleys of the Kananaskis Country. Your guide will recommend the best trails based on the season, ensuring you have the best possible experience of nature—and wildlife.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Canmore.

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Day 6 :

Banff - Lake Louise - Jasper

The route between Banff and Jasper, along the legendary Highway 93—commonly known as the Icefields Parkway—is one of the most beautiful roads in the country.

It is one of the most beautiful roads in the country: stretching 229 kilometers, it showcases the treasures of the Rockies—more than 100 ancient glaciers, trailheads for hikes to green and blue lakes, ice fields, waterfalls, and cascades.

We’ll point out the best stops along the way:

  • Crowfoot Glacier & Lake Bow: The Glacier Highway runs alongside Lake Bow, the starting point for longer hikes. At its far end is an ideal viewpoint for admiring Crowfoot Glacier, much of which has now disappeared.
  • Peyto Lake: sparkling blue amidst mountains and lakes. You’ll need to climb a bit to reach the magnificent viewpoint overlooking the lake on a short 2.1-kilometer hike (moderate difficulty).
  • Columbia Icefield: Just a short walk from the road, you can admire this vast 325 km² white landscape, which encompasses eight major glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier. The ice here is between 100 and 360 meters thick. You can walk across the glass-bottomed walkway (the Glacier Skywalk) for a breathtaking view of the glaciers (optional admission: contact us for details).
  • Sunwapta Falls: in our opinion, the most beautiful on the route! We recommend taking the short 2.6-kilometer round-trip hike (easy level) to reach the lower falls, which consist of three large cascades.
  • Athabasca Falls: Located 30 km south of Jasper, these falls are impressive for their power and stand 23 meters high.

Stargazing at the Jasper Planetarium.

In addition to being the world’s largest easily accessible dark sky reserve, Jasper is also one of the smallest towns in North America to have its own planetarium. Enjoy an entertaining and fun evening exploring the cosmos!

Overnight stay in a cabin near Jasper.

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Day 7 :

Jasper

A canoe trip on one of Jasper National Park’s majestic lakes.

Today you’ll enjoy a relaxing moment in the heart of a picture-perfect setting. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll admire the spectacular scenery of the Rockies from the water. You’ll spot birds and, with a little luck, catch a glimpse of other wildlife. This unique experience in an authentic canoe is the perfect way to get away from the crowds and enjoy Jasper at your own pace.

Afternoon at leisure in Jasper.

Explore Jasper on your own. Go hiking on the trails of Jasper National Park to admire the crystal-clear blue lakes, majestic waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramic views. Treat yourself to a kayaking or canoeing adventure on the serene waters of one of the splendid lakes, where wildlife abounds.

Campfire discussion with a Indigenous person.

Make yourself comfortable and get ready to discuss Indigenous culture, along with stories, drumming, and songs around a campfire. You’ll learn more about Canada’s Indigenous peoples during this intimate moment of sharing and exchange.

🌿 This activity helps preserve and promote the traditional knowledge of Canada’s Indigenous peoples.

Overnight stay in a cabin near Jasper.

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Day 8 :

Jasper National Park - Maligne Lake - Maligne Canyon

The goal of the day is to explore the Rockies in all their splendor!

In the heart of Jasper National Park, you’ll head into Maligne Valley to discover spectacular scenery—the very same landscapes featured in the magnificent photos for which the Rockies are famous.

  • Hike through Maligne Canyon, with magnificent views of the waterfalls from the bridges.
  • Admire Medicine Lake, fed by meltwater from the surrounding glaciers, followed by a short hike through the subalpine forest in search of bears and moose. Note that elk and deer are also often spotted in the valley.
  • Take a cruise on emerald-coloredMaligne Lake to Spirit Island, the perfect vantage point for capturing memorable photos. You’ll be impressed by the area’s geology and the mountain scenery surrounding the emerald lake, which make it one of the most photogenic spots in the region.

Overnight stay in a cabin near Jasper.

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Day 9 :

Calgary - Anchorage

Drive from Jasper to Calgary International Airport.

Return your rental car at Calgary Airport.

FLIGHT CALGARY -> ANCHORAGE

Pick up your rental car in Anchorage.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Anchorage.

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Day 10 :

Anchorage

Free day in Anchorage.

Explore the largest city in the state of Alaska. Anchorage isn’t a particularly charming city, but it was the starting point for the construction of the famous Alaska Railroad. The city has gone through various eras, from the visit of British explorer James Cook to the discovery of gold and oil decades later. You’ll stroll through the streets of downtown and, from an observation deck, view one of the continent’s most important urban fishing spots—an iconic site for the migration of king, coho, and pinksalmon.

Next, we strongly recommend a visit tothe Alaska Native Heritage Center, the province’s largest center for learning about Indigenous cultures. You’ll journey through 10,000 years of history through exhibits, dance and art demonstrations, games, and films, as well as by visiting the traditional habitats of these cultures. A fascinating and highly interactive experience.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Anchorage.

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Day 11 :

Anchorage - Talkeetna - Denali National Park

Drive from Anchorage to Talkeetna.

You’ll enjoy Alaska’s breathtaking panoramic views. In good weather, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America. The charming village of Talkeetna is known for its laid-back lifestyle and numerous craft shops with colorful storefronts.

Half-day at leisure in Talkeetna.

Talkeetna is a charming, artisanal town. It is located at the confluence of three rivers and takes its name from the Talkeetna River. Founded in 1919, it now offers many activities such as rafting, kayaking, and scenic flights to Mount Denali. The town itself is picturesque, with its colorful wooden houses, cabins adorned with caribou antlers, and craft shops along the main street. Its rustic and picturesque atmosphere makes it a unique place in Alaska.

The route between Talkeetna and Denali National Park, the second-largest national park in the United States after Yellowstone. This park is home to the country’s highest peak, Mount Denali, at 6,194 meters. The park is strictly protected; only the first 25 kilometers of the park’s sole road are accessible to vehicles.

Overnight stay in a fully equipped cabin near Denali National Park

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Day 12 :

Denali National Park

A guided day trip dedicated to exploring Denali National Park on foot.

Your guide will select the best hikes suited to your skill level and preferences. You’ll enter the park via its only road access, Park Road. It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife right along the roadside. Many hiking trails are accessible from this road, though they are sparsely marked. Depending on your preferences, your guide will take you to admire landscapes featuring rivers, canyons, and glaciers, all set against a backdrop of the tundra.

Hiking in the heart of Denali National Park is a true encounter withnature… A mystical experience, dominated by an abundance of flora and fauna, and by the spectacle of Mount Denali, rising to 6,194 meters. Denali is home to numerous mammals: you won’t be surprised to come acrossa grizzly bear or a herd of caribou, moose, or wolves. You’ll observe a unique and well-preserved ecosystem, as well as a tundra that is colored in some places by stunning wildflowers. Many species of migratory birds are also featured in this park, including the whooper swan and the golden eagle. Weather permitting, you’ll get a close look at the Nenana River.

Overnight stay in a fully equipped cabin near Denali National Park

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Day 13 :

Denali National Park - Fairbanks

A half-day of independent exploration dedicated to discovering Denali National Park onahike.

DenaliNationalPark has few hiking trails, and this is a deliberate choice to preserve the park’s flora and fauna. The existing trails range from 1 to 3.5 kilometers in length. You can choose which trails to hike based on what you’d like to do that day: lakes, canyons, glaciers, wildlife viewing, and/or plant life.

Drive between Denali National Park and Fairbanks.

Free afternoon in Fairbanks.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Fairbanks.

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Day 14 :

Fairbanks

Free day in Fairbanks.

Fairbanks is a picturesque city located along the Chena River. Known for its cold winters and bright summers that last until the middle of the night, the city offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Fairbanks is a cultural and economic hub, home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the famous Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center; the city offers a variety of cultural events throughout the year. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, with numerous activities including viewing the Northern Lights in winter, fishing, hiking, and exploring Alaska’s wilderness.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Fairbanks.

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Day 15 :

Fairbanks

Free day in Fairbanks.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Fairbanks.

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Day 16 :

Fairbanks - Glennallen

Route between Fairbanks and Glennallen.

Free day in the Glennallen area.

Glennallen is located at the junction of two of Alaska’s major highways. As the gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the town is also an excellent base for hiking in the surrounding area.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Glennallen

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Day 17 :

Glennallen - McCarthy

Drive between Glennallen and McCarthy.

Free day in McCarthy & Kennecott.

Overnight stay at a historic hotel in McCarthy.

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Day 18 :

McCarthy

Free day in McCarthy, a charming old-time village where time seems to have stood still.

You can take this opportunity to visit Kennicott, a former mining town. We highly recommend hiking one of the many trails near Root Glacier. On the way back, stop at the McCarthy Historical Museum to learn more about the region’s legendary history.

End the day with an Alaskan beer or hot chocolate, surrounded by mountains, in one of Alaska’s most unique spots.

Overnight stay at a historic hotel in McCarthy.

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Day 19 :

McCarthy

Free day in McCarthy & Kennecott.

Overnight stay at a historic hotel in McCarthy.

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Day 20 :

McCarthy - Glacier View

The road between McCarthy and Glacier View. The drive is spectacular, winding through mountains and glaciers.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Glacier View.

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Day 21 :

Matanuska Glacier - Glacier View - Palmer

You’ll set out on a hike to explore the Matanuska Glacier.

After putting on your mountaineering crampons and helmet, you’ll receive instructions to help you get familiar with the specifics of hiking on a glacier. Then, accompanied by your guide, you’ll set out onto the frozen ice to discover all the secrets of this magnificent glacier!

Drive between Glacier View and Palmer.

End of the day exploring the region.

 

Overnight stay in a cabin in Palmer.

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Day 22 :

Palmer

Guided tour exploring local agriculture in Palmer and the surrounding area.

You’ll start the day by exploring the charming town of Palmer with your local guide. After a stroll through downtown to learn about the history of local farms, you’ll meet a passionate farmer and discover the challenges of farming in Alaska. In the summer, the sun hardly ever sets, and in the winter, it’s scarce—a real challenge for locals. The tour ends on a culinary note with a local tasting included. A unique way to experience Alaska, from field to plate!

Half-day tour exploring the Palmer region.

Overnight stay in a cabin in Palmer.

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Day 23 :

Palmer

A Day of Exploration in the Wasilla/Palmer/Hacher Pass Area.

There are many wonderful things to do in this region; here is an overview. We’ll then provide more specific recommendations based on your interests.

  • Head up toHatcher Pass viathe magnificent scenic mountain road, with its panoramic views of theChugach Range. At the end of the road, let yourself be amazed by the historicIndependence Mine State Park. This former gold mine is quite unique; in fact, there were very few mining sites in this southern part of Alaska. Perched at an altitude of 1,184 meters, it was in operation from 1886 to 1951. While there, you can learn more about mining techniques and life in the historic village, some of whose buildings still stand today.
  • Kayakingon the Matanuska River.
  • Salmon fishing. This is a very traditional activity in Alaska. You’ll set out to explore the rivers around Wasilla to learn all about king salmon, silver salmon, and chum salmon.

Overnight stay in a cabin in Palmer.

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Day 24 :

Palmer - Seward

The road between Palmer and Seward.

The road windsthrough Kenai Fjords National Park. Some of the viewpoints are breathtaking: various stops along the way will let you admire the beauty of nature, from forests to glaciers. In the heart of theKenaiMountains lies the majesticExit Glacier, which you’ll see on a short hike.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Seward.

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Day 25 :

Seward - Kenai Fjords National Park - Seward

Boat Tour in Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay.

From the port of Seward, you’ll set out on a half-day marine wildlife viewing tour. Aboard a small boat, your captain will navigate the calm, sheltered waters of the northwestern part of Kenai Fjords National Park, searching for whales (including humpback whales and orcas), sea otters, seals, and bird colonies. The rugged coastline of the Chugach Mountain Range will add to the beauty of the scenery. The expedition also offers the chance to get closetosome glaciers.

Afternoon exploring Seward and its surroundings.

You’ll be fascinated by the variety of landscapes and the hiking and boating excursions you can enjoy from the town. This small town, with fewer than 3,000 residents, has an interesting history that you can explore in its small museums. A cornerstone of the Kenai Peninsula, it now offers numerous opportunities for boat trips and hikes.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Seward.

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Day 26 :

Seward - Resurrection Bay - Seward

A 3-day/2-night stay at the end of a fjord, in a fully equipped yurt, on your own.

Shearwater Cove is located in Resurrection Bay, a large ocean bay.

Meet at the Seward harbor to board a boat that will take you to your lodge, located in a fjord surrounded by nature. Your yurt is accessible only by boat or kayak, offering a truly 100% Alaskan experience! Each yurt has been designed to blend seamlessly with nature. Orcas sometimes swim very close to the lodge. The setting is charming and perfect for rest and relaxation.

We recommend exploring the surroundings by kayak and stopping wherever you like to go for a hike or watch a river full of salmon. The owners will give you the best tips for fishing and wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the sunset from your yurt, with a glass of wine in hand!

Overnight stay in a yurt in Resurrection Bay.

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Day 27 :

Resurrection Bay - Seward

A free day in your yurt, surrounded by Alaska’s natural beauty.

While there, in addition to enjoying the natural scenery from your private deck, you’ll have the option to participate in a variety of activities on your own: kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife and bird watching.

Overnight stay in a yurt in Resurrection Bay.

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Day 28 :

Resurrection Bay - Seward - Homer

After a second night lulled by the sound of the lapping waves, you’ll admire the turquoise-hued bay, coffee in hand.

You may spot some marine mammals, such as sea lions or, if you’re lucky, orcas. Numerous bird species fly overhead, including eagles searching for salmon scraps, which are very abundant in the area…

Return to Seward by boat.

Drive from Seward to Homer.

You’ll arrive in Homer, a town known worldwide for sport fishing and the halibut fishing capital. The route winds through Kenai Fjords National Park before reaching the coast. Several photo stops are scheduled along this scenic route.

Overnight stay in a converted train car in Homer.

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Day 29 :

Homer - Katmai National Park and Preserve - Brooks River

Set out on a day of adventure—by light aircraft and on foot—with the goal of spotting Alaskan brown bears.

You’ll fly by light aircraft into the heart of Katmai National Park and Preserve. More than 2,000 brown bears (grizzlies and Kodiak bears) live there, feeding mainly on salmon and seafood. The park is also home to more than 14 active volcanoes, and you’ll fly over a few of them. The colorful panorama during the flight will take your breath away. You’ll arrive at Brooks Falls, a major gathering spot for bears.

Plan to walk about 3 km on flat gravel trails and boardwalks. Bear activity can be observed just about everywhere, but it is particularly intense along the river. Elevated viewing platforms above Brooks Falls offer the best vantage point for photos.

Spend the night in a converted train car in Homer.

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Day 30 :

Homer

A free day to explore Homer at your own pace.

As the terminus of the Sterling Highway, which runs along the west coast of the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is well worth exploring to immerse yourself in its history and natural beauty. The “town” area is a maze of narrow streets lined with colorful wooden houses, small cafés, and great spots to sample the famous king crab legs. The fishing harbor alone speaks to the importance of halibut fishing. And for photographers, the colorful mosaic of buoys will delight your lens. The “Spit”—a seven-kilometer strip of land jutting out into the sea—is impressive. There you’ll find shops, restaurants, and lovely walking paths. Venturing along the seashore is breathtaking; the strong waves add to the wild, untamed character of the place.

Finally, the area surrounding the town is perfect for beautiful hikes, both along the coast and inland through the mountains of Kachemak Bay.

Overnight in a converted train car in Homer.

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Day 31 :

Homer - Anchorage

Drive between Homer and Anchorage.

Half-day at leisure in Anchorage.

Explore the largest city in the state of Alaska. Anchorage isn’t a particularly charming city, but it was the starting point for the construction of the famous Alaska Railroad. The city has gone through various eras, from the visit of British explorer James Cook to the discovery of gold and oil decades later. You’ll stroll through the various streets of downtown and, from an observation deck, view one of the continent’s most important urban fishing spots—an iconic site for the migration of king, coho, and pink salmon.

Next, we strongly recommend visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the province’s largest center for learning about Indigenous cultures. You’ll journey through 10,000 years of history through exhibits, dance and art demonstrations, games, and films, as well as by visiting the traditional habitats of these cultures. A fascinating and highly interactive experience.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Anchorage.

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Day 32 :

Anchorage - Anchorage Airport

Return your rental car in Anchorage.

Connecting to your international flight.

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